COLNE Valley Air Cadets celebrated its 70th anniversary with a grand gala day on Saturday.

The event, held at the Courtauld Sports Ground in Colchester Road, Halstead, attracted several thousand visitors over the course of the day, with profits going towards supporting the Air Cadets.

A wide range of entertainment took place throughout the day, with displays from parachute teams, cadet displays, a classic car parade and RAF Sea King and police helicopters, as well as a raffle with prizes, such as flying, golf lessons and £100.

Philip Heath, from the Civilian Welfare Committee of the Colne Valley squadron, said: “Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves and the raffle tickets sold like hot cakes.

“This year is also the 70th anniversary of the Air Cadets themselves, as we were formed in the same year, so it was a double celebration.